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NEWS ARCHIVE

Public gets closer look at Ohio River Bridges Project at open house

Construction on the new downtown bridge is just seven weeks away. Wednesday night, the public was able to get a closer look at the building plans during an open house and learn about some disruptions as a result of the work.

Building the six-lane structure starts on July 1, but the relocation of some Jeffersonville restaurants and history is already underway.

Five historic homes in the bridge's path are in the process of being taken out of it.

"They're going to be relocated, somewhat renovated, brought up to code, and then they will be put up for auction in October," said Bose.

For project leaders, it is part of the progress of putting a new bridge right next to the Kennedy in just three years' time.

For the first time, an open house was held so people could learn about the construction.

"I just wanted to learn more about the Bridges Project. Whenever they have civic events, I really love be on top of it and know what's going on," said Louisville resident Joan Noles.

Noles was one in a small crowd asking questions and getting a look at the presentations. She was just finding out that some lane restrictions and ramp closures on and around Interstate 65 are just seven weeks away.

"That's when you'll see the closure from the ramp from I-64 eastbound to I-65 southbound. It's a lower-volume ramp that'll be closed for the duration of the project," said Andy Barber, project manager for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

The project is expected to be finished by 2016, and builders said any traffic troubles will be a short-term problem to a long-term solution.

"Everybody will benefit from improved traffic flow, a much safer traffic system and a huge economic development impact that will help the whole region," said Bose.

The East End bridge that's part of the project is also expected to be finished in 2016.

More traffic changes and more public information sessions can be expected as the process continues.